Rising inflation is taking a toll on every Hoosier and small-business owner, but it's being felt most by those who were already struggling to make ends meet. Failed national policies continue to drive up the cost of everything from energy bills to groceries. Even a carton of eggs has nearly doubled in price. That's why I recently supported returning $1 billion to Hoosiers through an automatic taxpayer refund and I'll continue to look for ways to provide additional relief when legislators return to the Statehouse in January. Low-income Hoosiers should also know that there are many state resources available, including help with food, utility bills and housing.
You can find help quickly and confidentially, by calling 211, which can connect you to assistance with accessing food, counseling, and utility and housing assistance right here in Evansville. Navigators are available 24/7.
Fall weather brings dropping temperatures and higher energy bills. Applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program open Oct. 1, which can help prevent utility companies from shutting off home heating service to low-income families. Learn more about this program by calling 211 or by visiting the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority website at in.gov/ihcda and clicking "apply for energy assistance." Homeowners who are disconnected or receive a notice to disconnect should call their utility provider, as you may qualify for a crisis benefit.
To prevent foreclosure, homeowners can get help through the Indiana Homeowner Assistance Fund. This program can help with mortgage payments, property taxes and other eligible home-related expenses. To qualify for assistance, you must live in a single-family dwelling, a 2-, 3-, or 4-family home, a condominium or a home affixed to a real property. Applicants must also have experienced financial hardship, such as loss of a job or familial care. Families facing displacement or foreclosure can learn more and apply at 877gethope.org.
On the state level, I supported several actions to help provide relief to Hoosier families this year. I joined my fellow legislators to responsibly use the state's surplus, which experienced higher-than-anticipated revenue collections, to return $1 billion to taxpayers. Individual filers received $200 and $400 for married couples who filed jointly. The most recent refund is separate from the $125 refund issued earlier this year. According to the state auditor's office, over 1.5 million automatic taxpayer refund checks have been printed and mailed to Hoosiers. Individuals on Social Security who did not qualify for the $125 taxpayer refund because they did not have to file a state tax return can still qualify for the $200 refund, if they file their tax return in calendar year 2023. If you have questions, visit in.gov/auditor and click on "automatic taxpayer refund."
To further help, I also supported directing more than $74 million to boost proven programs and support families, including eliminating the sales tax on diapers, and expanding access to affordable childcare for low-income families.
Looking ahead to the next legislative session in January, I will remain focused on providing relief to Hoosiers. We may be facing record inflation, but our state will continue to do what's right by those who live, work and raise a family here. I welcome my friends from Vanderburgh and Warrick counties to reach out to me if you need help navigating state resources or would like to share more about issues important to you and your family. Contact me at h78@iga.in.gov or 317-232-9815.
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State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) represents House District 78,
which includes portions of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
